Title

Author

Thesis Defended

Spring 2011

Document Type

Thesis

Department

International Affairs

Abstract

The same forces behind globalization have fostered the international slave-trade, as well as the transnational communication networks of religious adherents. The slave-trade and these faith-based networks intersect in the realms of human rights and humanitarian activism. In particular, Christianbased advocacy has played a significant role within the movement to end human trafficking and various forms of modern slavery. This study is a cross-sectional, qualitative exploration of the motivations and conceptualizations behind the activism of individuals confessing a faith in Jesus Christ, especially those working on issues of modern slavery. The primary aim of this study is to explore the specific religious rhetoric, imagery, and histories that currently function as motivational factors within the world of faith-based abolitionist activism. A secondary aim of this study is to increase general awareness of Judeo-Christian perspectives, positions and approaches to anti-trafficking/slavery activism, for the express purpose of facilitating cooperation and collaboration between diverse groups of activists, both faith-based and secular.